WINNERS REVEALED
L-R: Killian Murphy, M&P Mechanical, Chris Reilly, Altecnic (sponsor) and Mark O’Rourke, M&P Mechanical.
L-R: Gareth Van Der Westhuizen, Designer Group, and Chris Reilly, Altecnic (sponsor).
WINNER: APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
HIGHLY COMMENDED: APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR GARETH VAN DER WESTHUIZEN, DESIGNER GROUP
KILLIAN MURPHY, M&P MECHANICAL
KINDLY SPONSORED BY:
KINDLY SPONSORED BY:
ALTECNIC
ALTECNIC
A bright future is forecast for Plumbing Phase 4 apprentice Killian Murphy, who displays an abundance of talent, drive and leadership. Killian has excelled at Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT), completing every task to a high standard, supporting his peers and ranking in Ireland’s top five at WorldSkills 2024. Immediately catching the attention of DkIT Lecturer Paddy Carroll with his excellence across both practical and theory work, Killian’s exercises quickly became a benchmark for other students. Displaying strong leadership within the group, he offers his time to help any students struggling with tasks. Killian has also impressed his employer, demonstrating a work ethic, maturity and skills beyond his years. TJ Collier, Operations Director, said, “Killian is an exceptional young tradesperson whose talent, drive and leadership qualities have made a lasting impression on everyone at M&P Mechanical. “Whether on site or during training blocks, he consistently applies himself to the highest standards. He has an intuitive understanding of plumbing systems, and his practical ability has made him a standout on every project he’s been assigned to. “Killian exemplifies the values of craftsmanship, professionalism and ambition that define the best of our trade.”
Praised by his employer and lecturer alike as a cut above other apprentices, Gareth Van Der Westhuizen is recognised as an exceptional emerging professional within Designer Group. A fourth-year apprentice plumber, Gareth currently leads a team of three apprentices alongside his line manager and takes an active role in Designer Group’s week-long safety training induction for new apprentice starts. He has also been nominated by his employer as an apprentice representative on the Craft Apprenticeship Steering Group for curriculum development. Designer Group Foreman (Mechanical) Damien Powell describes Gareth as self-motivated, a strong communicator and a technically-sound problem solver who is calm under pressure with his high standards never slipping. “Gareth is a very impressive apprentice, one of the finest I have come across in my 30 years in the industry,” said Damien. “He has a very exciting and promising career ahead.” Gareth received an equally glowing testimonial from Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT), where he has completed his Phase 2 and 4 assessments with distinctions across the board. Declan Connolly, Assistant Lecturer Plumbing, DkIT, said, “Gareth is an outstanding student who combines strong communication abilities with the flexibility to thrive in both team-based and independent projects.”
T: +353 (0)1 518 0580 - E: info@mandp.ie www.mandp.ie
T: +353 (0)1 860 0520 - E: info@designergrp.com www.designergrp.com
54 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE
FOLLOW US ON:
www.plumbingmag.com
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online